In this paper, I’ll be looking at the poetic devices of theme, image and tone used in Robert Frost’s ‘The Road Not Taken. The theme is a literary technique that determines the meaning of a poem. The theme is usually expressed as one word. Examples include “love” or “sadness”. Texts or poems can have multiple themes. The theme may not be stated in the text but is instead expressed by the actions, thoughts, and words of the characters. This poem is an excellent example. This poem is ambiguous and allows readers to reflect on their choices in life. The Road Not Taken from Robert Frost conveys an incredibly simple theme that is also pensive. The poem explores the difficulties and choices we face in our lives, and their impact on us. Frost introduces the theme by showing two paths through the woods. In a later part of the poem, Frost reveals more about the character’s personality as the protagonist ponders the past. This characterization bridges the gap that exists between the poet and the main character. It allows the poem’s deeper meaning to be communicated. Frost makes the reader feel more present in the poem with his diction. Frost makes Frost’s point even more poignant by using such devices.
Frost uses another literary element to convey his mood in the setting. Frost states that in his poem “Two paths diverged within a yellow forest …”. The expression “a wood of yellow” may refer to the color that the trees emit. The story is set in autumn. This, in turn, gives the impression that the character’s life and time are running out. Frost continues to establish his tone by demonstrating the character’s rational consideration and, ultimately, regret. In the second line of the stanza the author also establishes that the scene is a grassy one. It seems that in this section, the character wants life to crave him or for her to enter. The character may feel regret for this later on in the poem. Frost’s solemn tone is communicated by the reader becoming familiar with the experiences of the character.
The poet can use poetic devices to add meaning or intensity to a piece of poetry, or even create new ones. These devices can help bring the poem to life.
